Chattanooga, Tennessee – Arctic air is expected to remain nearby late this month, but its influence weakens notably across southern Tennessee, placing the region near the southern fringe of the colder pattern from Jan. 24 through Jan. 30.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, southern Tennessee falls within a roughly 40 percent probability zone for below-normal temperatures during the Jan. 24–30 period. This lower confidence reflects a transition zone where colder air may briefly filter south, but is more likely to be interrupted by milder air moving in from the Gulf region.
Across southeastern Tennessee, including Chattanooga, Cleveland, and the Interstate 75 corridor, daytime highs may dip below late-January averages at times, but are expected to rebound during milder stretches. Overnight lows will still turn cold on some nights, occasionally dropping into the 20s, which could support patchy frost or isolated slick spots on bridges and elevated roadways during early morning hours.
Farther west across southern Middle Tennessee, including areas near Columbia and Pulaski, temperatures may fluctuate more noticeably. Brief cool downs are possible, but sustained Arctic cold is not favored. Valley locations and rural areas may still cool efficiently at night, allowing refreezing where moisture is present.
The Tennessee Department of Transportation advises drivers to remain alert during early morning travel, particularly in low-lying and rural areas. While prolonged Arctic cold is unlikely, short-lived colder periods remain possible.
Overall, confidence is lower that below-normal temperatures will dominate southern Tennessee through the end of the month, but variable winter conditions remain possible as the broader Arctic pattern continues to influence the eastern U.S.
